Trevor Ariza Out At Least Eight Weeks

Lakers forward Trevor Ariza underwent an arthroscopic debridement procedure on his right ankle on Wednesday and will be out a minimum of eight weeks, according to a team statement relayed by Lakers website reporter Mike Trudell (Twitter link).

“Trevor Ariza had an arthroscopic debridement procedure performed on his right ankle today,” the statement read. “He is expected to make a full and complete recovery. Team doctors will reevaluate Ariza in approximately eight weeks, and an update will be provided at that time.”

Ariza was one of the many veteran players signed by the Lakers during the offseason and he was expected to play a prominent role. Ariza was considered the frontrunner for the starting small forward spot.

Seeking a ring, Ariza signed with the club on a one-year, veteran’s minimum contract in August. The 36-year-old finished last season with the Heat following a mid-season trade from Portland. He played in 30 games with Miami, starting in 27, and averaged 9.4 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.0 SPG and 0.6 BPG across 28.0 MPG.

With Ariza out until at least December, Kent Bazemore, Talen Horton-Tucker and Malik Monk project to receive more playing time at the wing.

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